Page 45 of In Pursuit of the Truth

“You need to talk to Nate. I guarantee you, he’s having similar struggles, wondering if Joe would think he’s stealing his girl. Hoping that you don’t think less of him for caring about you that way.”

Bailey blinked at her friend. “Has he said anything about it to you?”

“No. He’s never said a word, but I know him just like I know you.” Jenny led the way back to the couch where they both took a seat. “Talk to Nate. Pray about it. Most importantly, leave your heart open to the possibilities. Not just with Nate but with where you want to live and what you want to do. Don’t let guilt rob you of the future God wants you to have.”

Bailey nodded, her friend’s advice beginning to sink in. “I’ll think about it. Thank you.” She reached over and gave Jenny a hug. “You’re a straight shooter. Have I ever told you how much I appreciate that?”

“I’m glad because my mom says that’s why I haven’t landed a man yet.” Jenny laughed, but it was obvious she meant what she said.

“Your mom is a sweet lady, but sometimes I wonder about her.”

“You and me both.” Jenny gave her another quick hug. “Seriously, I’m going to get out of your hair for a while. Give you a chance to talk to Nate or put your feet up for a while. But you know I’m only a phone call away, right?”

“Yeah. I know. Thanks, my friend.”

“You’re welcome.” She cupped her hands around her mouth and hollered toward the stairs. “I’m heading out, guys. Maybe I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Moments later, it sounded like a herd of elephants were stomping down the stairs. The boys appeared at the bottom, followed by Nate. They all gave Jenny a hug before she left with a smile and a wave.

Bailey closed the door behind her and took in a cleansing breath as Seth and Jordan bounded toward her.

“We’re hungry,” Seth announced. “And bored. Can we play a game?”

“Or watch TV?” Jordan looked up at her hopefully. “Please?”

Bailey was bone weary. The boys didn’t need to just camp out in front of the TV by themselves for hours, but she wasn’t sure she was up for a game either. Then she got an idea.

“How about we pop some popcorn and watch a movie? What about Aladdin? That always makes us laugh. And I think we could use a lot of laughing today. What do you think?”

She couldn’t stop her smile as the boys jumped up and down with excitement.

“Come on, Jordan. Let’s go pick a stuffed animal to watch with us.”

The boys hurried back upstairs, leaving Bailey and Nate alone.

Nate smiled, a hint of worry lingering in his eyes. “That’s a great idea. If you three need time alone, I can hang out upstairs or even go for a long walk with Minnie.”

“You should stay. If you want to, of course. No pressure, no judgment. Not everyone loves Disney movies.”

He gave her an amused look. “I don’t know. I think only monsters don’t like Aladdin. I mean, I’d watch it for Robin Williams’ genius if for no other reason.” He slipped his hands into his pockets as his expression sobered. “I’m worried about you. Are you okay?”

She nodded, unwilling to talk about it now. “I will be.” God willing.

She felt his eyes on her as she walked to the kitchen and started making the popcorn.

Ten minutes later, they each had a bowl, something to drink, and were settled in for the beginning of a movie that Bailey could easily quote from memory. The boys had set up on the floor with pillows and their stuffed animals, leaving the couch for the adults.

Bailey leaned into her corner, propped her feet on the coffee table and exhaled. For the first time all day, she felt completely relaxed. One minute, she was eating popcorn and watching the movie. The next, she was curled on her side on the couch, her head resting on her arm and a blanket draped over her shoulders. It took a moment to remember where she was and what was happening.

When she sat up, she saw that Nate had moved to the floor to sit with the boys, leaving her the couch to nap on.

How long had she been asleep?

A glance at the TV told her they were in the last fifteen minutes of the movie.

Nate spotted her and moved to join her on the couch again. “I hope you got some rest.”

“I did, thank you. I obviously needed it. I don’t even remember lying down.”

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